SUGAR GOES BY MANY NAMES and hides where we’d least expect it. Molasses and maltose? Sugar. Corn syrup and sucrose? Sugar. Honey and agave nectar? They’re sugar too!
Sugar in some form is added to 74 percent of packaged foods, and the average American consumes 57 POUNDS of added sugar every year. That’s a lot of fuel for the harmful bacteria living in our mouths (particularly during orthodontic treatment when there are so many extra nooks and crannies for food to stay trapped after meals and snacks).
Sugar has many negative health effects, but as dental professionals, we’re focused on how it impacts our teeth. Sugar consumption is closely linked to gum disease and tooth decay, and it can eventually lead to needing treatment like fillings and root canal therapy.
So how can we avoid sugar when it has so many disguises? The easiest way is to cut out sugary sodas, fruit juices, and cereals for ourselves and our kids. We should also pay attention to food labels and try to buy foods with less added sugar. Finally, if we make more of our food from scratch, we’ll have better control of how much sugar goes into it!
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
Ira Spiro has been my dentist for 17 years. He is an excellent doctor. In addition to being a knowledgeable expert, he is conscientious and easy to talk to. He takes his time to talk through options and LISTEN to my concerns. While using up-to-date techniques in a modern office, his personal, friendly manner hearkens back to a less-rushed, less corporate era of family dentists.
Mitch R.
I have been a patient of Dr. Spiro’s for over 15 years. My wife and 3 children are also his patients. I’ve been very pleased with his work and of his staff. For example, last year, I needed a root canal and a crown. During an office visit, Dr. Spiro thoroughly explained to me in language I could understand why I needed the work done. He also described my options in terms of costs and his recommendation on when the work should be done. His staff also worked with my insurance carrier so I could anticipate what my costs would be for the entire procedure. I felt I was part of the decision process and was very satisfied with the outcome. I appreciate Dr. Spiro’s honesty and his ability to explain things so I can understand them. He has also been very flexible accommodating my busy schedule. I trust him and his staff to take care of my entire family’s dental needs.
Peter A.
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